Original toot date: 16 February, 2023

In 1994, Cathy Freeman caused controversy when she ignored warnings and carried the Aboriginal flag during her victory lap at the Commonwealth Games in Canada. Arthur Tunstall (Australia’s Chef de Mission for the games) publicly condemned her for this act and an incredibly polarising debate in our country ensued.
At just 13 years old, I was angered by this. I could not understand why she was not allowed to fly the flag of her people when representing her country at the games. I could not believe people were condemning this women we should have been so proud of and celebrating as the national icon she is. So I took it upon myself to write to Mr. Tunstall, expressing my disappointment, and encouraging him to celebrate our indigenous culture.
I never did hear back from Mr. Tunstall, but I am glad that today, our Indigenous peoples can now fly the flag freely and proudly, and that the flag is now flown outside of every government building; federal, state and local.
I was on the right side of history when I wrote to Arthur Tunstall in 1994 and I will be on the right side of history again as I continue to fight for proper indigenous recognition, respect and inclusion in this country.
Happy 50th Birthday Cathy and thank you for being such an inspiration to 13 year old me, and for giving me the courage to stand up against those who ridicule me, for wanting to create a fair and equitable society that is inclusive of everyone.

#cathyfreeman #aboriginalpride #indigenouspride

In 1994, Cathy Freeman caused controversy when she ignored warnings and carried the Aboriginal flag during her victory lap at the Commonwealth Games in Canada. Arthur Tunstall (Australia’s Chef de Mission for the games) publicly condemned her for this act and an incredibly polarising debate in our country ensued.
At just 13 years old, I was angered by this. I could not understand why she was not allowed to fly the flag of her people when representing her country at the games. I could not believe people were condemning this women we should have been so proud of and celebrating as the national icon she is. So I took it upon myself to write to Mr. Tunstall, expressing my disappointment, and encouraging him to celebrate our indigenous culture.
I never did hear back from Mr. Tunstall, but I am glad that today, our Indigenous peoples can now fly the flag freely and proudly, and that the flag is now flown outside of every government building; federal, state and local.
I was on the right side of history when I wrote to Arthur Tunstall in 1994 and I will be on the right side of history again as I continue to fight for proper indigenous recognition, respect and inclusion in this country.
Happy 50th Birthday Cathy and thank you for being such an inspiration to 13 year old me, and for giving me the courage to stand up against those who ridicule me, for wanting to create a fair and equitable society that is inclusive of everyone.

#cathyfreeman #aboriginalpride #indigenouspride